Then I wiped back the excess until I was happy with the finish. My favorite thing to wipe back with is an old t-shirt, or something similar.

Mmmmm, love it. The image is a copy of one of my old postcards. It's the Fontaine Estrangin in Marseille.

You can eliminate the dark grey step, and achieve a finish like this.

I'm off to create more variations. See ya soon.

UPDATE: If you'd like to learn how to make your own gesso, you should check out the Farragoz online painting course. I'm an affiliate, and, although commercial gesso works, I have been using the paint recipes from the course, and, much prefer the versatility, and, texture. You can learn more by clicking HERE.

Hi, Rosemary! This is just beautiful! You're making me want to work with gesso! I love this look. I have a question. I have a large armoire that I want to have this look. What would you suggest to achieve this look on a furniture piece. I'm considering using chalk paint but have only used it on smaller pieces. Maybe you've done a piece already that you could send me the link to. Thanks so much for your time and for sharing all your beauties!

Hello... I'm 902, your newest follower! OH what you did with paint! I love it. And, gesso...who knew? I didn't, but I do now and will make something really really soon. Thanks for the info...glad I found YOU! Please stop over and follow me when you get a chance. ttyl..xoso Sandy

Beautiful techniques. I never considered gesso for paint finish. My son graduated last May with an Art degree and he uses gesso all the time. I'm so glad to have read you post. Your finishes are stunning.Lynnwww.cottageandcreek.com

Just thought ide pop over to see what uve been up to, and as usual im never disappointed. I love the frame....u do such good work. Ive been thinking about a few of these frames for a project, however have ran across any i like just yet.....wish u were closer, lol......Hope ur having a great new yr......Bonnie

Hi! I just found you through Slice of Suburbia. I have joined your site, and signed up for your feed!Come check me out at: betsyspeert.bloodspot.com,I think you'd enjoy my stuff.I want to learn more about using gesso. This is the longest comment I ever left!Great to "meet" you.

I'm so with ya on the old world finishes Rosemary! I love gold and all, but that gold was not a fabulous one and your finish made it so much better! It's really an amazing transformation. Girl I wish I could send a container load of stuff to you to paint for me...I really love your work!....But I'm very thankful to have you as my "go to" for all things aged to perfection *winks* Vanna

Wow, just LOVE what you do with Gesso (and everything else! I'm getting ready to try your Chalk Paint recipe (1/2 Gesso & 1/2 paint). Can you tell me, would this require a primer? The other Chalk Paint that I use doesn't so I want to be sure I use this the right way.Thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your inspiration!!

I love your comments, and would love to reply if you have a question. Please make sure you are not a No-Reply comment. I can't respond if you are. If you are not sure, read my post "No-Reply, Noooooo", or send me a regular email. Thanks so much for your readership. I appreciate each and every one of you.